A browser extension that integrates IPFS functionality, enabling access to decentralized content and local gateway redirection.
IPFS Companion is a browser extension that integrates the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) into web browsers, enabling native support for decentralized content. It connects to a local IPFS node to automatically detect and redirect IPFS resources, making the web faster, safer, and more resilient by reducing reliance on centralized hosting. The extension provides tools for importing files, pinning resources, and managing IPFS interactions directly from the browser.
This extension is for developers and users who work with IPFS and decentralized web technologies, particularly those running a local IPFS node (via IPFS Desktop or command-line) and want seamless browser integration for accessing and managing IPFS content. It's also suitable for individuals interested in exploring decentralized websites and protocols like ipfs:// and ipns://.
Developers choose IPFS Companion because it offers a user-friendly, seamless integration of IPFS into mainstream browsers, with features like automatic resource detection, local gateway redirection, and per-site control. Its unique selling point is the ability to upgrade to subdomain gateways for origin isolation and provide experimental protocol support, enhancing security and compatibility while maintaining control over data and connections.
Browser extension that simplifies access to IPFS resources on the web
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Detects IPFS paths, DNSLink-enabled URLs, and x-ipfs-path headers, automatically redirecting to local gateways with subdomain upgrades for origin isolation, as detailed in the README's step-by-step flows.
Allows toggling gateway redirects globally or per website via the extension menu or URL parameters, providing fine-grained management without disrupting other sites.
Offers quick access to IPFS actions like importing files via drag-and-drop, pinning resources, and launching the Web UI directly from the toolbar, enhancing user convenience.
Enables handling of ipfs:// and ipns:// protocols by routing them to HTTP gateways, making decentralized URLs clickable and accessible within standard browsers.
Requires a running local IPFS Kubo node via IPFS Desktop or command-line, adding setup complexity and maintenance overhead compared to extensions that work with public gateways alone.
Known issues with popular extensions like Ghostery and NoScript can break functionality, forcing users to implement manual workarounds or allowlisting, as admitted in the troubleshooting section.
Only officially supports Chromium-based browsers and Firefox, excluding Safari and other browsers, which restricts its usability in diverse environments.
Some features are labeled experimental and disabled by default, indicating potential bugs or lack of polish that may lead to inconsistent user experiences.